Alain Clénet founded Clénet Coachworks in 1976 intending to create handcrafted, high-end automobiles that embodied the classic styling of vintage cars. The company's approach was artisanal, with an emphasis on craftsmanship and attention to detail. The Series I Roadster made its debut in 1977 and was manufactured in restricted quantities, with an estimated production of 250 units. Powered by a Ford V8 engine paired with a Select Shift 3-speed automatic transmission, this example comes finished in its factory-specified combination of tan and white over matching upholstery. The Clénet garnered acclaim, being referred to as "Driven Art" by Automotive Age and dubbed the "American Rolls-Royce" by Fortune, in addition to other notable publications. This rare Series I Roadster is now being offered for auction by its seller out of Florida.
The Series I was produced in an assembly line located within an airplane hangar, before the relocation to a high-tech facility to produce the upcoming generations. The first generation was also the only to have been constructed upon a Lincoln Continental chassis. Presenting vintage styling, an open-top design, and high-quality craftsmanship, this example comes finished in a classic combination of tan and white. Details include pinstriping, chrome brightwork, Danish teakwood accents, etched vent windows, a tan tonneau cover, and wire-spoke wheels wrapped in white-wall tires. Additional images are provided in the gallery.
The cabin presents tan leatherette upholstery spanning the upper dashboard, door panels, and seats. Matching carpets line the floors, contrasted with a solid polished walnut wooden dashboard and a wooden three-spoke steering wheel. Amenities include a tilting steering wheel, air conditioning, cruise control, a cassette stereo, AM/FM radio, a sound system, roll-up windows, a locking glove box, and dashboard-mounted spotlights.
Beneath the bonnet lies a 400ci Ford V8 engine featuring dual Venturi downdraft carburetors. As much as 166 HP and 319 lb.-ft of torque is sent to the rear wheels through a Select Shift 3-speed automatic transmission. The car is also equipped with power-assisted steering and brakes.
This sale will include a clean title.
Comments (20)
Been watching the car for days but unresponsive seller makes me wonder what is wrong with this beautiful auto!
Bid in the amount of $20,000
Hello Seller!
Bid in the amount of $12,000
Hi!
Do you have a driving video? And a really cold start (touching engine parts)?
Bid in the amount of $11,250
A new video has been added to the listing page.
Bid in the amount of $11,000
Would the engine description listing dual Carbureters be a mis-print? Can’t imagine that being true and/or why,,
Bid in the amount of $10,000
Bid in the amount of $7,500
@LuckysDad I will take the video for you tomorrow
@LuckysDad It’s for all the lights, except for the headlights
@andrewautosport
What are the four toggle switches to the left of the steering column in the driver's side foot well?
@andrewautosport
Can we get a cold start, running and driving video?
I'm watching this one, just to see how high it goes. Beautiful car!
Bid in the amount of $6,000
Bid in the amount of $5,000
Bid in the amount of $1,000
I saw this car yesterday and it is exceptional. The color combination is beautiful and it looks better in person than it does in photos.